When thinking about beautiful places to live, good old Brum with its Spaghetti Junction and industrial buildings may not be the first place to spring to mind; however, those who live there will not be surprised to learn that a Birmingham suburb has been voted one of the UK’s top places to live.
It turns out that Birmingham is brimming with fantastic areas, with Harborne taking a top spot thanks to its thriving atmosphere and top schools. Let’s take a look at what is so great about Harborne.
The restaurants
Two restaurants in Harborne have been deemed ‘exceptional’ by the Good Food Guide, with foodies not short of options in the area. The Harborne Kitchen is one of Birmingham’s most esteemed eateries and has frequently been tipped to win a Michelin star. For gastro pub fare, The Plough is one of Harborne’s best pubs and serves classic pub grub; what’s more, it runs a fantastic pub quiz. Tropea, a stylish Italian restaurant, can cater for those looking for some Mediterranean flair, as can Spanish offering El Buen Gusto on the high street. Finally, for more relaxed fare or those seeking a spot for coffee and a catch-up, Paul’s at No.41 serves food at the counter in a relaxed and welcoming space.
Markets and shopping
Residents of Harborne have no shortage of activities to keep them busy. In addition to being able to enjoy a fantastic farmers’ market, they can rest safe in the knowledge that property prices near farmers’ markets are worth an average of 26% more than those in other locations On the third Saturday of every month, Harborne has a fantastic local (no more than 50 miles) artisan market where the discerning shopper can buy fresh sourdough, fruit, veg, herbs, delicious snacks, and handmade items. There is also a bustling high street with up-market shops.
House prices
Being one of the more affluent areas of the city, house prices in Harborne outstrip those in most areas of Birmingham; however, in comparison to similar areas in the UK, they represent surprisingly good value. The majority of sales in Harborne during the last year were semi-detached properties, which sold for an average price of £311,112. Harborne has beautiful period properties, with an abundance of estate agents and conveyancing solicitors Birmingham, such as https://www.samconveyancing.co.uk/Conveyancing-Solicitors/conveyancing-solicitors-birmingham, to cater to the keen Harborne buyer.
The schools
Harborne is home to some of Birmingham’s best-performing schools, including the ‘outstanding’ Ofsted-rated Harborne Primary School. It is also home to the Blue Coat School, an independent private prep school that was founded in 1722 and has 15 acres of gardens and fields.